Pakistan has officially launched its first-ever trackless electric tram system in the city of Karachi, marking a major step toward greener urban transportation. The electric tram operates on rubber tires and follows a virtual track guided by sensors, eliminating the need for traditional steel rails. Built with Chinese collaboration, the system is equipped with lithium iron phosphate batteries, has a maximum speed of 70 km/h, and can carry up to 300 passengers per trip. The project aims to reduce air pollution and traffic congestion in one of the country’s most densely populated cities.
The initiative is part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to adopt low-carbon public transport solutions, in line with its National Electric Vehicle Policy. Officials have stated that the trackless tram system consumes 30–50% less energy than conventional diesel buses and has a service life of around 25 years. The pilot route covers almost 50 kilometers and includes planned integration with existing bus rapid transit (BRT) lines. If successful, similar systems will be introduced in Lahore and Islamabad as part of Pakistan’s long-term climate and sustainability goals. More